The Vox, Issue 6, 2013

May 23, 2013 Volume #69, Issue #6 www.dailypowwow.com

First of many lasts to come -Commentary-

This will be my very last column written for the Vox. There’s not going to be another issue with my name in it, and my stories and pictures will By: Kaitlyn never appear at Nathem [Yearbook Editor] the high school again.

The past four years have gone by too fast. Walking in my freshman year and sitting in my Spanish class, I didn’t say one single word to anyone. I looked straight ahead in the halls to make sure I didn’t bump into any hot headed senior, and I apologized with respect every time I accidentally did. Now here I am, the senior. I walk into two classes a day with a smile on my face and I’m not afraid of anyone. Not even the teachers or the principals.

I’ve spent four years at this high school and have grown thanks to everyone around. The time has flown by like I just walked in through the doors yesterday. It sounds cliche, but if you ask any senior they will tell you the same thing.

For any freshman that is shy and afraid of us seniors, you should be. It’s part of high school. It seems like four years is forever, but it’s all gone in the blink of an eye. Don’t take the people and teachers around you for granted.

Some of the people you see everyday, you’ll never see again. That’s scary if you really think about it.

When you’re a part of something, you’ll never be forgotten. So get involved and be remembered.

Ups and downs of being a teenage mom Casey Kindl, junior, explains the hardships and joys of being a single, pregnant teenager.

By: Taylor Lamm [Opinion Editor] When it comes to sex everyone thinks “oh, it won’t happen to me.”

Then before they know it they’re sitCasey Kindl, ting in an junior office waiting for the results that could change their life forever.

In an instant they go from going out with friends on the weekends to staying home taking care of a baby.

Casey Kindl, junior, never saw having a baby in her future. She, like many other teenage moms, thought that it would never happen to her. When she found out that she was pregnant many different thoughts and emotions overflowed her mind. “There was a lot of tears.

I was scared, nervous, and just in shock,” Casey said. One thing that scared her the most was having to tell her mom. “My mom just hugged me and said everything would be okay,” this relaxed Casey knowing her family was there to support her.

There are a lot of challenges that come with being a full time student and a full time parent. “Keeping up in school is hard, since I’m not here a lot and also the money,” she said. Being a student can get exhausting after a while, but now having to deal with being pregnant brings on a whole new challenge.

“I am 31 weeks along, and having a little girl named Jocelyn Jo,” she said. This is one thing that keeps her going. “I can’t wait to see her for the first time and all the hugs and kisses.” Through all the struggles she has at school, the thought of holding her baby girl brings a smile to her face.

There are several things that constantly weigh on her mind.

“I’m just trying to get done with high school instead of having fun and no worries. I’m scared about having to be a single parent and learning how to do everything on my own,” she said. Even though she might be a single parent Casey knows she’s strong enough to be a great parent. “I would tell others to

wait till they get out of college and are done with their schooling so they don’t have to depend on their family so much,” Casey explained.

She knows it would have been easier to take care of a child if she was older but she wouldn’t change a thing now.

As the weeks go by the anxiousness and nerves grow along with her stomach. She prepares for the arrival of her little girl by setting up the crib and everything that is needed. As she looks at everything that is all ready to go for her baby all she can think about is, “I think physically I have everything ready, but not emotionally.” She’s ready to experience this next step in her life.

Casey Kindl, junior, prepares for her new arrival by setting up the bassinet and getting all of the clothes ready. Kindl is due on July 24th.

Santee’s empowerment to victims By: Uriah Lekin [Staff Writer]

Donnie Santee, sophomore, sits and remembers his past experiences with bullying.

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Table of Contents

The bell goes off, the halls get crowded, and the silence is setting in. Students avoiding a certain hall, or even their lockers because a group or even a single person likes to become their worse nightmare of high school the “bully”.

Donnie Santee, Sophomore seems to be your average student he has two sisters, love English, and loves the song “Neon” by Chris Young but the one question most would believe they know the answer to, they are more than likely wrong. “I have been bullied and I have also stuck up for people who have been bullied also.” Donnie said. He broke the silence in the small corner of the library as he began to twiddle his thumbs under the table.

Santee began answering question after question like has bullying become more tolerable, “No, but now the problem is what people should do when they see it.” MHS Principal Greg Semler also agrees with Santee’s

Front Page ~ p. 1

Entertainment ~ p. 6-7

Community News ~ p. 12

Opinion ~ p. 2-3

Center spread ~ p. 8-9

Features ~ p. 13-15

Activities ~ p. 4-5

Senior Interviews ~ p. 10-11

Back Page ~ p. 16

statement, “Its more of what people should do when they see it instead of turning their head.” He said. “The bullying avenue has enlarged due to text messaging and social media.” He also added.

“Bully is a terrible situation that no one should have to endure,” Santee said. According to a statistic by ABC news 160,000 teens between the ages of 10-17 stay home because of the fear of bullying. “We need to start to empower the victims so they aren’t a victim.”

Semler said.

Bullying is one of biggest problems Americans face today and especially in the school system but also in the work place. “”It goes on in the adult world but it is more cute and intense in high school,” Semler stated.

Donnie found his way through it with this simple statement, “Stick through it, God will help you through everything, and he will show you the way to go.” He finally stated.

Now the final question is for you: what are you going to do in the sight of bullying?

Order your 2012-13 yearbook today! Go to: www.jostensyearbooks.com or call 1-866-282-1516 to place your order!

Read “The Marion Indians: beloved stereotype or an honor?” to see how the mascot may be considered racist.

2 Opinion The Marion Indians: beloved stereotype or an honor?

Although the Indian is our traditional mascot, the question remains: is it racist?

By: Jordan Hansen [Activities Editor] As political correctness becomes more and more of a focal point for many, the name and use of a mascot like the Indians starts to be questioned. It’s a fairly touchy subject, with tradition being mashed into what is now seen as racism.

One important thing to remember is that the schools that use those names are not being racist on purpose. It would be completely ridiculous to think that they were trying to insult a group of people. At Marion

it’s no different. There was no attempt to be racist when the mascot was decided in the 1920’s. In fact, the reason that the school mascot is called the Indians is in part due to the Indian Creek and someone decided that “Indian” might be a good name for the schools mascot. Which begs the question, if the school is racist for being called the Indians, wouldn’t the creek also be considered racist for being called Indian Creek?

Does that make anyone who calls the creek that name racist?

If the intent isn’t to be offensive,

then there shouldn’t be an issue.

However, shouldn’t doesn’t mean won’t. Many groups, especially those that involve Native Americans do not like the fact that schools use stereotypes of their culture in their mascots and sports teams. They feel that their heritage is not being accurately portrayed or respected and they definitely have a point. Many times stereotypes are created and those stereotypes are almost always wrong.

Honestly, the use of Indian mascot in the way the school uses it here isn’t particularly racist. Marion doesn’t (anymore) have a mascot dressed as an Indian or any other major politically incorrect symbols around the school. Someday the school may be forced to change the mascot name due to a need for politically correctness and self-preservation by the school. However, until that day Marion will remain the mighty Indians

Name your parents

Summer road trips

By: Breiana Brown [Executive Editor]

By: Taylor Lamm [Opinion Editor]

Workaholic This parent is all about the work. They don’t often see their kids before dinner.

Helicopter Constantly checks their kid’s grades and schedule. Wants to know exactly what they do.

Timid Tammy

This parent jokes around.

They rarely discipline their kids.

Pushover This parent is easily manipulated.

They give in often.

Lazy Boy This parent is easy going.

They usually don’t put much thought into their parenting style.

As summer approaches the thoughts of no school and just getting away consume teenagers minds. Summer is known for relaxing and having fun with friends. From elementary school to high school, the way students have been spending their summer breaks have changed. With age they gain new ways to get to places and new friends to hang out with.

As teens hit the age of sixteen the privilege of driving is placed in their hands. During the summer this can come in handy. Teens finally hit that age where they don’t need to depend on their parents to take them where they want to go. They can just get in the car and go wher-

This drawing of an Indian, located in the hallway near the weightroom, demonstrates a stereotypical representation of an Indian.

ever they please.

For teens when the word summer comes into their minds, so does the word road trip. Road trips can be a way for friends to come closer and to make memories that will last a lifetime.

The road trips can be trips to the beach for a day, or even the week long trips out of state.

For some, this could be a way to prove to their parents that they are responsible and can be trusted. These road trips can also be the last memorable trip with friends before going off to college.

Road trips don’t just have to be during the summer, but it is more common. Then so when planning for summer maybe a trip with the friends can be something added to the list of events. It can bring friends closer and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Labels in society: why they’re wrong By: Becca Hall [Staff Writer] When it comes to society, there is much to complain about. Celebrities are criticized for every move; gain a pound and they are suspected of being pregnant, leave the house without makeup and they are said to be a wreck. When people read magazines or hear gossip about these celebrities, they start to become insecure about themselves. Every girl has those makeup-less days

and every human has blemishes. So what if you gain a pound or have a pimple, it happens to everyone. Society has made blemishes a bad thing.

Stereotypes and hatred are thrown down on people like rain.

It seems as if everything is society has a label. For example, abcnews.com reports that generally, if a model is size 6-14 they are considered a “plus sized model”. Saying that a girl

who is of average size is considered “plus sized” is not only offensive to the models, but to a majority of American women.

Why does it matter what dress size a model wears, they are models all the same. But they are still labeled differently. It is almost like out casting and discriminating by adding extra labels to everything.

Everybody makes snap judgments about the people they see while walking down the street, but lately society has influenced many to go far beyond that.

Vox Staff

This parent let’s their children run their life.

They are afraid to upset anyone.

Best Friend

and keep a very strong as well as proud tradition going.

Top row: Advisor: Sarah Eicher Executive Editor: Breiana Brown Co-Yearbook Editors: Kaitlyn Nathem, Alex Estes Activities Editor: Jordan Hansen Opinion Editor: Taylor Lamm Feature Editor: Taylor Millis Photo Editor: Claire Nash Bottom row: Design Editor: Kiersten Kiene Ads Editor: Kylie McAllister Web Editor: Storm Bogs Social Media Editor: Haley Shaffer Staff Writers: Becca Hall, Kayla Comried, Uriah Lekin, Gage Miskimen

2012-2013 Editorial Policy The Vox is a public forum student-run newspaper dedicated to informing and entertaining the students of Marion High School since 1934.

It is published six times a year by Tri-Co Printing Company and is distributed during the final block of the school day by the journalism staff.

The staff will report as accurately, fairly, and objectively as possible. All activities will be covered by the staff to the best of their abilities,

without showing favoritism to any group.

Letters to the editor will be printed from anyone in the community. However, The Vox retains the right to edit articles without changing the writer’s intent. There is a limit of two hundred words per article and all letters must be signed in order for them to be published.

The decision to include them rests solely on the staff and advisor. Turn letters into room 22 or to any staff member.

Read “The valedictorian award is being questioned,” to see what will happen to this high honor.

Opinion 3

The valedictorian award is being questioned The award of valedictorian is under scrutiny because some believe the process of choosing is not fair.

By: Taylor Millis [Feature Editor] For years there has been a pressure put on students to achieve academic success, to become the best of the best and, for some, eventually be named valedictorian. A title few receive but many dream of, valedictorian has a prestige about it that makes it a highly sought after award. With how much the education system has evolved is this top of the line title and the process of awarding this title, valid anymore? As the answer may be a no brainer to some who say, ‘of course the smartest student should be recognized for their success,’ the process in which a valedictorian is chosen must be taken into consideration.

It all comes down to grade point averages. Those three magic letters that every high school student knows and many stress over their entire high school career, GPA. The question is, is this factor alone fair?

So much affects a student’s GPA now a days. Whether a student takes AP courses or not is one way to make or break the students chance in getting the award of valedictorian. But some students choose to take other courses that test their academic rigor, like

joining band and or choir and learning the complex language of music, or taking a college course at the local community college. For some students, it’s not that they are taking the easy way out by not taking these AP high school courses, it’s that they are choosing to take a different path that challenges them academically.

So, is it fair to condemn these students to valedictorian, and even top ten, failure?

So what’s the solution to this ‘fairness’ problem? While some say the age old tradition of valedictorian is worn out and no longer applicable to today’s education system, the truth is taking away this award all together doesn’t do a whole lot. There is still the presence of class rank and even if a student isn’t given the official title of valedictorian they still have the rights to say they are 1st in their class academically. It is not possible to take away the reality of the unbalanced system of grade point averages.

Some ways that schools can fix the issue of how they choose to give awards out at graduation is to award students in other ways. Have a new award that awards a student for overall well roundedness. A student

can be chosen by having teachers or school officials choose one or more students that they think has shown outstanding skills in more ways than just academics. Another way some schools have solved this issue is by awarding the title of valedictorian to more than just one student. They do this by choosing a set accumulative GPA that a student must achieve in order to receive this award. This then eliminates some of the competitiveness that comes with being the best of the best. There are many other ways to solve the on going issue of valedictorian fairness, schools just need to find the solution that fits them best.

As the pressure of being academically successful becomes greater in today’s society, our education system changes to try and prepare students for the rigor the real world will ask of them, intellectually. But, as this system advances more and more, the once no brainer process of awarding the top academic student begins to be questioned in terms of fairness.

Where some may see no problem at all, others see inequality and so schools must compensate by creating more ways students can achieve awards of greatness.

Judge people on who they are, not their looks By: Haley Shaffer [Social Media Editor] Now a days, it seems like people live in a society where who someone is, is defined by what they wear and who they hang out with. Seems pretty crazy that people are willing to judge someone based solely off of what they other person is wearing and who they’re with. Since when does what someone can or cannot afford, have any effect on who they are as a person. And it goes both ways.

Sometimes when someone sees someone wearing Miss Me jeans and Uggs, they automat ic a l ly characterize that person as someone who is rich and conceded. Or someone will see someone wearing clothes that aren’t brand name and aren’t brand new and automatically think that person is less fortunate than them or lazy. These are the kind of stereotypes that many people are either put in or putting other people in. The fact of the matter is that what people spend or don’t spend their money on is their choice. If someone isn’t buying $100 jeans doesn’t mean they don’t have the money for it, maybe they just don’t want to spend that much money on them. And vis versa.

Just because someone does spend their money on clothes doesn’t mean they’re conceited or rich. Bottom line is, either way it’s their money. They can do what they want with it.

Believe it or not, everyone was

born with different tastes, and styles. Everyone has a different opinion on everything. We have different fashion tastes, food cravings, music styles, and that’s what makes the world go round. If everyone was the same, imagine how boring life would be. When people judge others on what they wear or the music they listen to, they’re missing out on so many opportunities to meet new people and explore new things. And it goes deeper than just clothes.

J u d g i n g someone on looks means not just their wardrobe, but their face, hair, body, everything. The snap judgements people make can sometimes stop people from wanting to be themselves.

The geeky, shy girl in the back of the classroom could possibly be the funniest girl someone has ever met, but they’ll never know if they judge her by her glasses and braces. The guy that wears dark clothes and rocks out with his headphones in while walking in the halls, could be the most chill and nice guy ever. But, once again, no one is ever going to know if they judge him because he likes his music just a tad louder than most.

Whenever someone makes a snap judgement about someone else, they’re basically saying that they think that they’re better than the other person or superior. But

everyone, literally everyone, has been through their geeky, awkward, just down right embarrassing stage at some point in their life. The truth is, no matter what someone wears, it has absolutely no reflection on who they are as a person. Sure, the girl who wear Nike shorts everyday and tennis shoes, might be a sporty person. And they guy who carries around six books with him at a time might like to read, but that doesn’t tell you anything about him.

Try to see life from someone else’s point of view. Look behind the glasses and underneath the make up and try to see who the person really is.

Don’t automatically ostracize someone because they’re different than you. Differences are what makes people, people. No one’s perfet. The fact that nobody is the same as someone else and nobody is perfect is what makes people who they are.

18 hour plane ride to a new life -Commentary-

Before the end of summer I be on an a ir pla ne, heading to Manc he st e r, Engla nd.

I am mov- By: Alex Estes ing there [Yearbook Editor] to attend university, but that isn’t the only reason.

My boyfriend of two years lives there, and I am moving there to be with him for the first time.

When I was younger like thirteen or fourteen, I vowed to myself that I would never ever ever have a long distance relationship. I had convinced myself that they were for losers. But they’re not! There is nothing wrong with anyone who chooses to be in a long distance relationship. It doesn’t make them desperate, or ugly, or undatable.

In nearly no case is the person you are willing to be with for a long time will be your next-door neighbor. No. That only happens in movies. That will never happen to anyone.

A lot of people feel like it’s a stupid move, or would be too scared themselves, to move to another country just to be with a boy; in truth I was afraid at first. But I would be crazy to pass up the chance to experience living in England and traveling to other countries in Europe just because I’m afraid of a little relationship trouble. And in all honesty I am not moving there all for him.

For most, it would be hard to throw everything away and move to a place where you will be all on your own. But for me it isn’t hard for me to leave behind the life I developed in Iowa. I never lived in the same house for more than five years and don’t really have any attachments to my life here. I am more than excited to start my own life in England, before I get too old.

Read “Meister’s morning lifts,” to learn about this year’s upcoming football lifting routine.

4 Activities Meister’s morning lifts Hayden Meister prepares for football morning workouts By: Gage Miskimen [Staff Writer} The sweat drips down as the reps continue. The sun isn’t even out yet as it is still early morning. But the Marion football team is in the weight room, working hard during football workouts, on their grind in the mornings, lifting and doing speed drills.

Hayden Meister, sophomore, is a Marion football player who goes to morning lifting. Getting up early can be hard but the football players do it.

“It’s not bad. You get used to it after doing it for two years.” Hayden said.

Hayden also went to morning lifting as a freshman last year.

Lifting together brings the team together and gets the players excited and ready for the upcoming season. “It’s good working with the team and it’s a good bonding time.”

Hayden commented. Hayden enjoys workouts because it improves him and makes him better for football

and other sports too. “I like workouts because it makes me stronger, faster, and more prepared.” All of these traits are important for a successful football team.

When walking into the weight room, a person should expect loud music and clanking weights as the athletes work hard to improve their bodies and strength. “I like the intensity in the weight room.”

Hayden added. Some people may not understand the purpose of working during the offseason, but Hayden has his explanation on why it’s necesHayden Meister, sophomore, gets ready to sary, “All the improvements for strength and speed are made fall, “I feel we have a good chance in the offseason.” The improvements made in the offseason can of making it to the state championhelp a team achieve their goals dur- ship.” Hayden stated.

Working out in the offseason is ing the actual season. Hayden has just as important as working durhigh goals for the football team next

Mohr excited about the new softball season By: Taylor Millis [Feature Editor] She gets ready for another practice, she feels the excitement rise. She can’t wait to get on the field and practice the sport she loves, softball.

Michalyn Mohr, sophomore, has played softball since she was six. “It started with T-ball. My parents made me try everything when I was little! I fell in love with the game from day one.” Her love for softball grew even more as she’s gotten older. She plays shortstop for the varsity team at MHS and she also plays for the Cedar Rapids Blue Devils.

She loves her team too. “Being around my teammates is my favorite part of softball.

Getting to spend my summer with all of them, it should be a lot of fun. Many memories will Michalyn Mohr, be made that’s for sure,” Michsophomore

alyn explains. If you ask Michalyn, there isn’t one thing that she doesn’t love about softball. “There is nothing really that I am not excited for. I’m super excited! I love the game.”

Even though she loves this sport, its not all glamorous. Michalyn explains some of the downsides of playing softball. “All the strawberries you get on your legs from sliding and diving.” That’s not the worst sliding can bring a softball player. Michalyn has had some serious injuries playing softball.

“I broke my leg sliding into home base,” Michalyn says. Injuries and all Michalyn wouldn’t change want anything to change.

Preparation for the Navy By: Claire Nash [Photo Editor] Red, white and blue. Fighting for our country. Supporting the military. Even celebrating the 4th of July. A lot of people have family members in the military or ones that have been in it a long time ago. In some cases these people follow in their families footsteps.

Kylie Cooper, sophomore, plans on going into the Navy after she graduates high school. She decided to join for two specific reasons. “Well a lot of my family joined. And I want to become a marine biologist when I grow up so my grandpa was just like hey you should go into the Navy and become one of theirs.

So I did the sea cadet thing and I liked it. And that’s when I decided I Kylie Cooper, should join.” sophomore

She is very excited to be involved in it.

Being in the Navy isn’t easy.

“Well what I’m doing is taking classes to become certified in scuba and sailing. Just get use to being on water. But it’s a lot about getting in shape and toughing up.” She said. Last summer she went to boot camp to do sea cadet training. “I went to boot camp for two weeks in June and we pretty much do what the military does. Got up at five physical trained then classroom and did drills. Like learn to shoot. We had to take a swimming class and got tested on that. We did a lot in those two weeks. And now I just go to drill once a month for a weekend.” She said. For now Kylie trains for drill in Marshall Town, she hopes to train in Chicago once she finishes high school.

She plans on working hard and toughing up before the intense Navy training takes place.

She’s ready for whatever the Navy throws at her.

bench press in the weight room. ing in-season. With the hard work and motivation from last season, the Marion football team is setting some high expectations and they will be working hard to achieve these goals.

Michalyn is excited for the season and has high hopes for this season. “It will be a little rough. We are short on pitchers, but our defense is solid. We will pull through.” Michalyn believes in her team and knows that will enough practice they will be successful.

With the first game only two days away Michalyn and her team know they must practice extra hard. Come game day they can’t let nerves overcome them and need softball to become an instinct rather than a talent.

Read, “For Scott, success is in the ink,” to see what Andie Scott did to win the writing contest.

Activities 5

For Scott, success is in the ink Scott shares her inspirations and the real reason she writes.

By: Gage Miskimen [Staff Writer] Writing a story or any other piece of writing is a long process of drafting, revising, and drafting again. The process can be tedious and it takes a creative and patient person to commence in these tasks.

Andie Scott, sophomore, is a writer who participates in Creative Ink. She won first place in the poetry category of the school writing contest and second in short stories. Andie has been writing for a long time, “I’ve been writing since I was really little. When I was 5, I wrote full scripts. I wanted to make a movie called, Space Fighters.”

Andie writes many things, but like most writers, she has a genre she is most comfortable in. “Fantasy is my favorite. I like creating my own characters. I’m not a big fan of poetry though.” Writers have a variety of reasons they began to write. Andie has

her own, “I was crazy as a child and my mom is a writer, so that inspires me.”

Along with her mother, Andie has other writers that have inspired her too. “John Green is my favorite writer. He always writes insightful, awesomely written teen-fiction. I don’t actually read fantasy, but I write it. It’s weird. I’m not a big reader,” She said. Andie also added her insight on books. “Papertowns by John Green and various comic books have inspired me to write. Papertowns has helped me write recently and comic books have pushed me in creativity. The Tale of Desperaux is really cool too. My mom used to read it to me when I was little.” Andie, along with other writers gets tons of inspiration from different forms of writing, whether it be from classic nov-

Lochner ready for senior season By: Jordan Hansen [Activities Editor]

As summer edges even closer, opening day for high school baseball is coming up fast. The expectations are always high for a Marion team that has had a lot of success in recent years. Returning a good number of players this season should shake out to be a good one.

Levi Lochner, senior, knows a little something about baseball and happens to be one of the best pitchers on the team this year. “I’ve been playing since I was 4 or 5 and I’ve been playing with some of the guys on the team since I was in 4th grade.”

Last year was definitely a year to remember for the Indians. They won 29 games, which tied a school record. “We’ve just had people step up, we came together as a team and really have bought into what coach was saying,” he commented.

With high hopes, Levi and the rest of the Marion Baseball team gets set to begin another season. “I think we should have another successful season as long as people step up and do their jobs. For Levi himself, it’s pretty simple. “I just gotta keep Levi Lochner, the team in a position to win.” senior

Klein steers for the win By: Kayla Comried [Staff Writer] He gets out of bed and rushes to the track with his dad. He drinks a lot of water on the way to the race so he can stay hydrated. When they arrive, his dad helps to get ready for the day, and they start working on the car.

Brandon Klein, junior, has been involved with dirt track racing since he was a young teenager. “I moved to my dads when I was 13, and I hung out with him and got involved.”

Along with helping Brandon to start racing, his dad has made a impact on his out look as a whole. “I enjoy racing because my dad was successful with it.” He later added, “ My favorite part [about racing] is learning from my dad and his skills with building race cars.” Brandon enjoys spending this time with his dad to get ready for the races, but he also loves the race itself.

Brandon loves the feeling that he gets when he is racing.

He used to get a little scared when he first started, but that feeling has for sure escaped his body because of the safety they use. “When we build our cages and seat belt harnesses we take great pride with our safety precautions.” Along with the safety Brandon also enjoys his nickname.

“They call me the freedom train because I have the power of a train, and I am not restricted to the tracks.” With all this fun stuff anyone could love this sport.

The final adjustments have been made to the car. He climbs in, heads to the starting line, and waits for the Brandon Klein, race to begin. junior

els, teen-fiction or even comic books.

Inspiration for writing can come from anywhere and it can take a lot of inspiration to motivate writers. Writers need that inspiration to work and to keep wanting to work.

When it comes to advice for other writers, Andie has this to say, “Make

sure you’re in the mood to write and just write what you want. Whatever makes you happy, and reread it over and over again.” Writing is a tedious task and writers have to have discipline and inspiration to write. But for most writers, the finished product is usually worth the wait in the end.

Andie Scott, sophomore, brainstorms her next story in creative writing class.

Read about the new Great Gatsby movie in, “Gatsby returns to the big screen.”

6 Entertainment Gatsby returns to the big screen This day in history By: Jordan Hansen [Activities Editor]

Lady Antebellum is an award winning country band that has found quite a bit of success. They have just released their fourth album “Golden” and are currently on their third headlining tour.

“Golden” sounds similar to their other work, but there is nothing wrong with that.

Their sound obviously works for them, and doesn’t sound like a typical The album, “Goldcountry arten” was released ist, so it can on May 7th. be enjoyed by

a larger audience. The majority of the lyrics heard on this album are relatable, upbeat, and just pleasant to listen to.

The most surprising element of the album was hearing more from Charles Kelley, the male lead vocalist. It seems that the lead is usually split between him and Hillary Scott, or he just sings in the background with the third member Dave Haywood. On the track entitled “Golden,” the roles are switched and Kelley sings lead throughout the entire song, while Scott and Haywood sing in the background.

“Golden” is a great album that is easy on the ears and very relatable.

This album gets a 5/5 rating and is worth checking out, no matter what genre of music a person likes!

The first ever Rugby World Cup kicks off with New Zealand playing Italy.

Microsoft releases the Windows 3.0 operating system.

Tokyo Skytree is opened to the public. It is the tallest building in the world.

2012

By: Storm Bogs [Web Editor]

Apollo 10’s lunar module flies within 8.4 nautical miles of the moon’s surface.

1987

Lady Antebellum releases a new CD

1802

By: Haley Shaffer [Social Media Editor]

Martha Washington, American wife of George Washington, died on this day.

1990

Safe, Fun, Summer bucket list

By: Breiana Brown [Executive Editor]

1969

also has one of his own going on, so his moral standards may be a bit questionable. NevertheOnce just a book assigned to high school ju- less, during a trip to New York City, Tom conniors and an awful movie featuring Robert Red- fronts Gatsby about it and Daisy gets very agiford, The Great Gatsby has now been remade into tated and wants to go back home. a film featuring Leonardo DiCaprio. Leo plays Without revealing the ending, the movie ends Gatsby, the mysteriously in a shocking conclusion, rich bachelor trying to reacjust like the book. In fact, quaint himself with a former one of the good (or bad love, Daisy (Carey Mulligan), if you hated the story) who now is married to Tom aspects to the movie is (Joel Edgerton). how closely it follows the However, the 1920’s love book. Very rarely do movstory is told from the point of ies follow a book quite as view of narrator, Nick, (Tobey closely as Gatsby did.

Maguire). The movie makes The sound track of the him out to be a recovering movie is in a league of its alcoholic who is writing a own. Jay-Z, Beyoncé, and book about his experiences will.i.am highlight a truin order to help him recover. ly amazing sound track.

The story begins with In fact, the fact that it is Nick arriving in Long Island so good (and different!) with dreams of being a stock is what sets this movie broker. Daisy, his cousin, in a place of its. In fact, Actress Elizabeth Bebicki plays Jordan invites him for tea one day just the idea of having Baker along with Toby McGuire who where he meets Tom. During a 1920’s era movie with plays Nick Carraway in the newly rethis time it is also revealed hip-hop and rap music leased movie, The Great Gatsby. that a man named Gatsby Image obtained from: thegreatgatsby.warnerbros.com is an interesting concept. lives next door to Nick.

It also makes the movie The next day, Nick remove at hyperspeed, esceives an invitation to a party that Gatsby is pecially the beginning, adding even more layers throwing and Nick finally meets the mysterious to this very different movie. man. Later, Gatsby asks Nick to have tea and reThe Great Gatsby is a good movie, especially introduce Daisy to him. Things take off from there if you like party movies since one thing that is and Gatsby and Daisy begin a sort of fling, the obvious is that a Gatsby party puts a Project X type that only two long-lost lovers can have. one to absolute shame. Gatsby is a way to pass Tom, although arrogant and crude, is not stu- the time until this summer rolls around and pid and eventually finds out about the affair. He the big movies hit.

Info obtained from historyorb.com

Need an idea for dorm room decorating? Read, “DIY: how to make a bulletin board.”

Entertainment 7 DIY: how to make a bulletin board History of this city By: Kayla Comried [Staff Writer]

By: Storm Bogs [Web Editor]

Materials needed: 1/2 inch thick foam board, old T-shirts or fabric of any style, stapler, scissors, ribbon of any style

How to: Step 1: Cut the fabric to fit over the board, leaving a bit of excess to fold over the edges.

Step 3: Take the ribbon and place diagonally over the board, or in any other design that is wanted.

Step 2: Fold the excess fabric over the sides and staple to the foam board.

Step 4: Fold over excess ribbon and staple to the foam board.

New, fresh summer fashions By: Taylor Millis [Feature Editor] Going Graphic: big bold prints

Monochromatic Maniacs: Black and White

Jammin’ Jean: all washes of jeans in shirt, pants and dresses

Step 5: Take ribbon and begin to place diagonally in the other direction and repeat step 4. Continue to do this until the board is finished.

And the board is finished!

This would be great to make to use to display pictures at a graduation party. This would also make a fun board to hang up in a college dorm or bedroom. Making a bulletin board instead of buying one is a lot cheaper and is easier to customize and decorate.

Many people walk down the sidewalks and streets of Marion, Iowa each day. Many people see the buildings, see the established in 1839 signs, and see the people who call Marion their home, but does anyone know where it all started? Not usually. Normally people just keep walking, passing by each piece of evidence that shows how long ago this town was founded.

Marion started when Linn County was organized.

When a new county was arranged, they had to choose commissioners to locate the best spot for the “seat of justice.” Three commissioners were chosen, and keeping in mind the fertileness and convenience of the land they choose what is present day Marion. That’s how this town was started, but it had to get its name somehow.

The name Marion was in honor of General Francis Marion. He fought in both the French and Indian war and the American Revolution. The commissioners choose this name because his biography was a popular book in American Literature. Now the town had a name, had some cabins, and had some people, but there was more.

During the mid to late 1800’s and the 1900’s many things were established in Marion. 1840, the year right after Marion was established was a big one. The town had many of its “firsts” a few of which include: the first store, the first blacksmith, the first frame building, and the first “temperature hotel.” In 1844 the permanent brick court building was finished, serving a population of 2,700. The building was remodeled in 1877, but the county seat was transferred to neighboring Cedar Rapids in 1919. In 1905 the sisters of Mercy established St. Berchman’s Seminary. This building still stands as an apartment building today, and is located at 1st Avenue and 15th Street. There are many more note worthy events that have happened in Marion’s history, but those are just a few.

So, while walking down the street next time take a look around. This town called Marion has a history, it has a heritage, and it deserves to be known.

10 Things I wish I knew...

By: Kiersten Kiene [Design Editor]

1 “Don’t make the mistake of not joining sports or clubs, because, I really wish I did.”

-Spencer Holmquist, senior

“Take school seriously but not too seriously.

Life isn’t all about working, have some fun.”

-Zach Weir, senior

4 “I regret not paying more attention in chemistry!”

Sean Darland, senior

“Get core classes done early so you don’t have to take it later.”

-Ashlee Reece, senior

6

Holmquist, Senior

7 “Stay motivated in school work so you don’t get stressed.”

Courtney Zeets, senior

3

2

8

“Don’t lose friends over stupid drama, they are important...”

-Lexie Rael, senior

“When life hands you lemons, make orange juice, and leave everyone else wondering how you did it.”

-Zach Vasey, senior

9

“Have fun while y can, life hi you hard.”

-Daquan Bradle senio

“Take college classes, so you don’t have to pay for them.”

-Aubrey Pedersen, senior

5

10

“Don’t put off your homework until the last minute, it just piles up.”

-Mariah McSweeny, senior

.

you its .”

ey, or

f

Teacher’s Advice “Try new things because you might be surprised by what you find.”

“Believe in yourself because sometimes you will be the only one on your side.”

“Smile and nod, that’s just it, smile and nod.”

Ms. Raemakers

Mrs. Logan

Mr. Wake

Seniors share their thoughts Where do you wish you had worked harder?

75 50

37 20

25

8 ool Sch

10

ts ife r L o l her a t i Sp c O So

Log on to thedailypowwow.com or click the QR code to see more poll results and more advice from the 2013 seniors!

10 Senior Interviews Name: Meghan Donehoo

What are you going to miss most about Marion?: “Cora and Singing to Parham with Lydia.”

Quote or piece of advice: “Live the life you’ve imagined.”

Plans for the future: “Go to Kirkwood for my gen. ed. and then transfer to Platteville for criminal justice.”

Name: Hannah Morris

What are you going to miss most about Marion?: “Carlee Tope, Katlyn Hardecopf, and Claire Nash.”

Many seniors have very different plans and goals for their futures. Read below and on page 11 to lean more about these interesting people.

Name: Lizzie Thatcher

What are you going to miss most about Marion?: “I’m going to miss the Germans, Anna and Rebecca, and the amazing New Creation Show Choir:)” Quote or piece of advice: “It’s not the broken dreams that break us, its the ones we didn’t dare to dream.”

Plans for the future: “Going to Kirkwood for two years and then transferring to Loras to become a e elementary school teacher.”

Jessica Thomas

Plans for the future: “Attend Iowa State University and hopefully marry Justin Bieber *fingers crossed*”

What are you going to miss most about Marion?: “I’m going to miss seeing the people I have seen everyday since kindergarten, all the laughs and fun we have had growing up together” Quote or piece of advice: “Don’t tell me the sky is the limit when there are footprints on the moon” Plans for the future: “Attend St. Ambrose University to play volleyball and major in psychology and prephysician assistant.”

Name: Megan Stroud

Name: Spencer Toms

Quote or piece of advice: “Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass, it’s about learning to dance in the rain.”

What are you going to miss most about Marion?: “Socializing all the time and seeing the autism room.”

Quote or piece of advice: “Do your Homework! It’s really not that bad.”

Plans for the future: “Teach, travel the world.”

Name: Abbie Takes

What are you going to miss most about Marion?: “Building Trades, Wies, Football, Friends, Logan Larson *The car chase during Building Trades*” Quote or piece of advice: “Don’t race in the parking lot or park in the back” or “get to the weight room!” or “Oh piss” or “Powow! Powow!” -Weis Plans for the future: “Work”

What are you going to miss most about Marion?: “Mr. Dyrland’s life lessons...in choir and the coolest Germans here!”

Quote or piece of advice: “You’ve gotta dance like there’s nobody watching, love like you’ll never be hurt, sing like there’s nobody listening, and live like it’s heaven on earth.” -William W. Purkey Plans for the future: “Attending UNI for a career in public relations.”

Name: Carlee Tope

Name: Matthew Teff

Name: Chad Ulferts

What are you going to miss most about Marion?: “Getting to spend half the day playing with power tools and listening to Wies in Building Trades. Car chases in Building Trades.”

Quote or piece of advice: “It’s right next to the toilet paper” -Wies “Don’t ‘race’ in the parking lot” Plans for the future: “Get a job at Oakdale Classification Center when I turn 18. Go to school for criminal justice and then get a job as a police officer.”

What are you going to miss most about Marion?: “Nanna, bear, and shmashel. Tripping over grave stones with Mickala, fiestas with Senorita Fowler, and adventures with Karen and Jess.”

Quote or piece of advice: “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams...”

Plans for the future: “Attend Iowa State University and study forensic psychology.”

What are you going to miss most about Marion?: “I’m going to miss building trades.”

Quote or piece of advice: “Oh piss” -Weis Plans for the future: “Marines”

Thank you to all of the seniors who have participated in senior interviews and The Vox. Thanks from everyone on The Vox staff, and good luck with your future!

Many seniors have very different plans and goals for their futures. Read below and on page 10 to learn more about these interesting people.

Senior Interviews 11

Name: John Viner

What are you going to miss most about Marion?: “The teachers, SEMLER, Jordan Cole, not Spencer Holmquist, Devin Lebeau, B. Hornback and the amazing coaching staff” Quote or piece of advice: “When my grandma was 67 she would walk 5 miles a day now she is 71 and we don’t know where she is.” -Jordan Cole Plans for the future: “Go to Kirkwood to be a cop and be Jordan Cole’s personal assistant”

Name: Antonio Verduzco What are you going to miss most about Marion?: “I will miss the teachers and friends.”

Quote or piece of advice: “Enjoy what you have while you have it, before it becomes what you had.” -Anonymous Plans for the future: “Go to kirkwood to get an AA in electrical engineering”

Name: Nicky Vincent

What are you going to miss most about Marion?: “All the friends I’ve made that will stay behind to finish high school” Quote or piece of advice: “Get as many core classes done as soon as possible so they rest of high school is fun.”

Plans for the future: “College and Military.”

Name: Khaleal Walker

What are you going to miss most about Marion?: “Having classes with Marissa Whitney, my friends.”

Quote or piece of advice: “Get in the habit of studying, it will pay off in the long run.”

Plans for the future: “Room with Chayse Wheeler and go to Kirkwood.

Transfer to a four year and major in criminal justice.”

Name: Chayse Wheeler

What are you going to miss most about Marion?: “Allie LeGrand, my best friends, Exel/Word/Powerpoint, accounting with Zach and Thomas.”

Quote or piece of advice: “Senioritis sucks, good luck juniors. Work hard through out Senior year” Plans for the future: “Go to Kirkwood for 2 years and get an apartment with Khaleal Walker.

Transfer to 4 year when done at Kwood.”

Name: Cedrick Williams

What are you going to miss most about Marion?: “Semler, Mr.Z., Coach Immerfall/Thorton, track and Trevor Hardman.”

Quote or piece of advice: “Friends are associates, people you call brother or sister are true friends.”

Plans for the future: “Kirkwood study criminal justice/ apply to be either Marion or CR police officer.”

Name: Courtney Zeets

What are you going to miss most about Marion?: “Volleyball season, football games, Kelsey Kirk, and prom:)” Quote or piece of advice: “Foods the only person you can count on these days.’”

Plans for the future: “Go to UNI for accounting.”

Name: Loryn Wignall

What are you going to miss most about Marion?: “Mostly friends.”

Quote or piece of advice: “Just get through school and be done. Don’t make it harder than it has to be.”

Plans for the future: “Go to Kirkwood, then go to a four year college for psychology.”

Read, “Summer 2013 Iowa concerts” You might just find something fun to do this summer!

12 Community

Summer 2013 Iowa Concerts By: Kiersten Kiene [Design Editor]

Spending the summer working By: Storm Bogs [Web Editor] No school or homework, less responsibilities, and kids can stay up as late as they want without regretting it in the early morning.

Summer is the best part of the year to the majority of kids because it screams freedom. Or does it? Especially for high schoolers, it is very common to get a job during the summer if they don’t already have one. Whether it is because they have bills to pay, are saving for college expenses, or simply just want to have their own money to spend on whatever they wish, most upper classmen in high school get a job in the summertime.

Although having a job in the summertime doesn’t sound very appealing, there are many perks to it. Having a job means making money! If a student has a part-time job, they will still have time to have fun and spend the money that they

made. Also, if a student didn’t want to spend their money that they make, they could save it for a big purchase or a vacation. Having a job also helps keep a student busy.

Summer can be a long 10 weeks and people can run out of things to do. If a student has a job, they won’t have to worry about not having anything to do.

It can be difficult for kids to get jobs. Some places are very strict with who they hire, and if someone gets turned down multiple times it can lead to discouragement and might make the kid want to stop looking for a job. However, there are many places here in town that hire teenagers. Ranging from movie theatres to restaurants and bowling alleys, there is more than likely a job out there that appeals to everyone; students just have to keep looking in the right places.

Downtown’s new hot spot By: Uriah Lekin [Staff Writer] After the buy out of the new Hilton hotel Double Tree the US Cellular center decided to also do major upgrades. The US Cellular center has hosted many event like Graduations, Plays, Disney on Ice, and Concerts. No events have been planned at this time but many are expected to come.

The hotel Double Tree owned

by Hilton hotel also is planning to bring more attractions to downtown Cedar Rapids. Double Tree is a branch of hotels owned by Hilton Hotels according to the Double tree web site. After all the renovating from transferring the Crowne Plaza design into a Double Tree design

they made some very huge changes.

At the very top of the hotel is a large restaurant/lounge that is open 24/7 and gives a beautiful view of the city. After a guest checks in they get a fresh chocolate chip cookie, every room has a large window, desk area, freshly made bed, and a 37’ inch high definition television. Have a desiring urge to get up and jog at three A.M. the guest can the hotel has a 24 hour fitness center. The hotel also has a 24 hour pool that is always cool.

The new Double Tree hotel will be located downtown in Cedar Rapids Iowa and will open June 1st 2013 be there to enjoy the fabulous opening.

most every taste of music is going to be covered this year. Choosing which one to go to will prove the hardest of all this year.

Getting big stars into Iowa is a rare thing to happen, even in Des Moines.

Iowa doesn’t see many of them. People like Rihanna, Miranda Lambert, and even One Direction may Iowa State Fair have come close to Iowa, but rarely Dierks Bentley and Justin Moore - Aug perform right here in our state. This 11 summer, Iowa strikes a few lucky Toby Keith and Kip Moore - Aug 15 sticks with some of music’s biggest Train and Matt Nathanson - Aug 16 names coming to Iowa on tour.

Carly Rae Jepsen and The Wanted Being a in Iowa, most of the people coming are country. So if you are a Aug 17 country music fan, you are in luck. Alan Jackson and Gary Allan - Aug 18 Just some of the big names coming Wells Fargo Arena are Kip Moore, Little Big Town, and Justin Bieber - Jul 7 even Toby Keith. Most of the counTaylor Swift - Aug 1 try acts will be in the fairs fortunately, the biggest names in music Jones County Fair overall are coming to Des Moines.

Toby Mac - Jul 21 For all of the pop music fans, JusMotley Crue - Jul 19 tin Bieber will make an appearance Keith Urban, Little Big Town, Dustin here, as well as Taylor Swift.

Lynch - Jul 20 For the ones who are not so into today’s music, there are some older Others rock groups coming as well. Motley Daniel Tosh - Jun 5 (Paramount) Crue, Billy Idol, and Alice Cooper Trace Adkins - Jun 9 (Council Bluffs) are in store for an Iowa visit too.

Billy Idol - Jun 28 (Council Bluffs) And for the particular ones that Alice Cooper - Jul 13 (Council Bluffs) prefer listening to some comedy rather than a musical act, the ParDarius Rucker - Aug 2 - (Council amount Theater right here in Cedar Bluffs) Rapids has the perfect man for that.

Rascal Flatts - Aug 18 (Sioux City) Daniel Tosh is scheduled to show Lady Antebellum - Jun 1 (US Cellular off what he has on June fifth.

Center) Summer 2013 is going to be a great one in the state of Iowa. Al-

Want to find out what your teachers were doing when they were your age? Read, “Teachers: when I was seventeen.”

Features 13

An insight on Netflix: reasons to subscribe and watch By: Gage Miskimen [Staff Writer]

Derek Smith, Sophomore

Q. When do you watch Netflix?

A. When I’m at home and I’m bored.

Q. Series on Netflix that you’re addicted to?

A. The Walking Dead Q. What do you like about Netflix?

A. The variety. It accompanies all different sexes, ethnicities, and sexualities. And there are no commercials.

Q. When do you watch Netflix?

A. Usually at night.

Q. Series on Netflix that you’re addicted to?

A. Happy Tree Friends Q. What do you like about Netflix?

A. The wide variety of movies.

Tristian Joyce, Junior

Q. Weirdest thing you’ve watched on Netflix?

A. “Not Another Gay Movie” because the scenes were awkward.

Q. Longest time spent watching Netflix?

A. Three days straight, because I was sick.

Q. Weirdest thing you’ve watched on Netflix?

A. “Fat Boy Chronicles” Q. Longest time spent watching Netflix?

A. Six hours.

Q. A piece of Netflix advice?

A. Stay away from sketchy movies!

Brianna Dunkel, Sophomore

Lexi Morgan, Freshman

Q. A piece of Netflix advice?

A. Don’t go to the independent films.

Teachers: when I was seventeen

Students and their pets

By: Kayla Comried [Staff Writer]

By: Becca Hall [Staff writer]

Mrs. Ann Grant Counselor

Mrs. Kris Knepper French teacher

What things were you involved in?

“I was on the number one tennis team, and I was involved in student council, the treasurer, the school play, and Spanish club.”

What was your memory?

“My favorite memory is when my tennis coach let me get out of school early to pick up the van.”

What kind of car did you have?

“I had a bicycle, and I walked to school, only the rich kids had cars.”

What did you want to be when you grew up?

“I wanted to be a teacher, and I wanted to baby sit.”

Is there any advice you wish you would of had in high school?

Don’t sweat the small stuff, enjoy every day. Look for the goodness in everything and everyone, and know you’re where you’re supposed to be otherwise you would be somewhere else. Live in the moment otherwise you will miss stuff along the way.

What things were you involved in?

“I was the head photographer for the yearbook, and I was also in French and German club.”

What was your favorite memory?

“My favorite memory was cruising the Ave. in Cedar Rapids on Friday nights with my friends.”

What kind of car did you have?

“I didn’t have my own car, but I got to drive my mom’s Chevy Nova.”

What did you want to be when you grew up?

“I wanted to do something in International Business and use my language skills.”

Is there any advice you wish you would of had in high school?

“Don’t choose a college based on where your best friend or boyfriend is going. Those people probably won’t be your best friend or boyfriend when you get out of college so choose a college that suits your interests.”

“I have a tail-less cat and she looks like a bunny and I also have a dog and she is 15 years old.”

-Lawryn Fraley, sophomore

“I have two cats, Pepper and Wizzy, and they are inbred and I love them a lot.”

-Trev Biery, senior

“I have cattle, chickens, lots of cats, a dog, and a horse. I love them all, especially the dog and the horse.”

-Grace Ehlinger, junior

The senior journalists recount their experiences over the past four years.

14 Features

Claire

Q. If you could change anything about your time in high school, what would you change? A. “I wouldn’t change a thing! I’m happy with way my time in high school was.” Q. What were the artists or songs that got you through high school?

A. “Ke$ha, One Direction, Sammy Adams, El-

Storm Q. If you could change anything about your time in high school, what would you change?

A. “I’m pretty happy with my high school experience, I don’t think I would change anything.”

Q. What were the artists or songs that got you through high school?

A. “Ed Sheeran, Taylor Swift, and One Direction are the main ones.

Q. What are your plans after high school.

A. “I plan on attending St. Ambrose University to study Marketing. ” Q. What were your favorite classes?

Jordan

lie Goulding, Ed Sheeran, Miranda Lambert and many others.” Q. What are your plans after high school. A. “I plan on attending Hawkeye Community College in Cedar Falls for two years then transferring to UNI to become a PE/health teacher or personal trainer. Maybe both. Who knows!”

Q. What were your favorite classes? A. “Health, gym, journalism, English & computer graphics.” Q. What was your favorite part of high school?

A. “All the sleep overs and late nights I spent with Ashley, Carlee, and Hannah! Oh and filming in the endzone at CR Wash football games.” Q. What is your advice for under classmen?

A. “Join journalism.

Respect the upper classmen, soon you will be one:) And do what makes you happy.

A. “Journalism.”

Q. What was your favorite part of high school?

A. “Being in journalism all four years and being able to see all of my friends everyday.”

Q. What is your advice for under classmen?

A. “Don’t be afraid to try new things, step out of your comfort zone every once in awhile, and be yourself.”

See, everyone gets all sentimental about high school and I’m just like, well it’s over when it’s over, right?

I mean, yeah, I enjoyed it, but now it’s time to move on with life. There’s definitely going to be some people I’ll miss, but that’s life and I’ll accept it.

I don’t even know what I’m really supposed to write here. My memories? I have many. My favorite parts of high school? Way too many to count. Though I will have to say one of my favorite memories were those made on the field. I mean there are just some things that you can’t replicate anywhere else in life and those made through a sport are definitely of that nature.

I mean, obviously there are bad memories too, but I think high school is a time to remember the good and forget the bad. Use those experiences to go far in life. And yeah, if you’re in Iowa City, come visit me!

Kiersten

Well here we are, May 22nd, and four days away from graduation.

Four years ago I would never have thought it would have come up so quickly. This year has been the shortest year by far. Football season just flew by and two seconds later wrestling season was over, and my high school cheerleading career was over just like that. In one blink of an eye, the school year is over. I never thought that it would be so sad to leave high school and leave everything behind. As much as I am excited to leave and get three hours away from anybody and everybody, I am scared to death. This is the ultimate test of freedom and responsibility. Coach Quinn, Coach Dunne, Eichs, Karina, Tamara, and of course my Mom and Dad have been there for me every single day for the last four years.

Leaving these people behind will be the biggest challenge. I am so thankful for everybody that was here for me.

High school has been one of the best journey’s of my life. The ten months that I’ve spent inside these classrooms this year have flown by.

All the people that I saw in the halls yesterday, won’t be the same faces I see in the halls in a few months. All the friends that I have become so close to, I will be hours away from.

Adults always say that life gets so much better than this, but I don’t know how. High school has been amazing for me. Obviously some classes were tough, and I didn’t always enjoy waking up before the sun did for my early morning classes. However, as soon as I got to class I was okay with being there because of all the people around me that were making me laugh.

Journalism helped me open up to people in this school more than I usually would. With interviews and getting quotes from almost everyone in the school I felt more comfortable and had more confidence walking down the halls. I met many friends throughout this class and Mrs. Eicher inspired me to always do my best no matter what I was doing. I’m going to miss everyone in the class and all the food that we always went and got.

Four years goes way too fast, so take your time to grow up and enjoy yourself while you’re here. Before you know it you’ll be like me and the other 168 students preparing for graduation.

Q. If you could change anything about your time in high school, what would you change?

A. “I would probably change the effort I gave in my classes, and try to get better grades instead of just coasting by.”

Q. What were the artists or songs that got you through high school?

A. “Marcy Playground, Neon Indian, Kate Nash, The Arctic Monkeys, and Joy Division.”

Q. What are your plans after high school.

A. “I am moving to England and going to Huddersfield Uni to study illustration.”

Q. What were your favorite classes?

A. “Creative Writing, Photoshop and Drawing.”

Q. What was your favorite part of high school?

A. “Having the opportunity to go to Mount Mercy to view my artwork in their student gallery.”

Q. What is your advice for under classmen?

A. “Friends, don’t let friends wear Uggs.”

ex l A

-Kaitlyn

Read “Senior year: an exciting transition,” to find out about Harper Bean’s high school experience.

Feature 15

Senior year: an exciting transition Harper Bean, junior, is ready to make the step to becoming a senior.

By: Haley Shaffer [Social Media Editor] The end of the school year is approaching and the senior class is forced to say farewell to high school.

It seems most seniors are more than excited to be Harper Bean, leaving high school junior and starting their next chapter in life.

And as the seniors say goodbye, many juniors start to wonder what it will be like to be a senior in just a few short months. As fun as senior year can be, it also means saying goodbye to not only high school, but also some of the people in it. While some students couldn’t get out of high school faster, others are not ready to leave.

Harper Bean, junior, is someone who is looking forward to senior year, but not looking forward to graduating. “I’m excited to be a senior but at the same time I’m not because it’s the end,” Harper said. She thinks that even though growing up can be fun, there are so many things that she’s going to

miss about high school. “I’m really going to miss volleyball, football games, and dances,” Harper said. As Harper looks back, she remembers what it felt like her very first year of high school.

“I was a little scared and intimidated before freshman year to come to high school,” Harper admits. She says that it can be scary to enter a new school with new, older people, but that freshman should still be making the best of high school. “Make the most of high school while you’re here. Don’t wait until junior or senior year to get involved,” Harper said.

Even though most of high school has been fun for Harper, she says that there were things that were difficult.

“I think time management was hard.

Trying to have a job and be involved in things and get good grades at the same time,” Harper said. Once she learned to balance her schedule everything was smooth sailing.

As Harper’s junior year comes to a close, she reflects on her past three years of high school. She remembers all the exciting football and volleyball games and friends she has made so far.She excited to make more amazing memories her senior year.

High school really does fly on by By: Breiana Brown [Executive Editor] What will you miss about MHS? Probably the people.

What won’t you miss?

Having to take classes you don’t need.

How fast has school gone by? Really fast, but I’m excited for it Erin Garringer ‘13 to be done.

Are you nervous for the future? I’m more excited than nervous for college.

Piece of advice: Work hard in the beginning.

What will you miss about MHS? All my great friends.

What won’t you miss? Most of the teachers.

How fast has school gone by?

Really fast.

Andrew Falco ‘14 Are you nervous for the future?

Nope, not at all because I have a lot of SWAG. Piece of advice: I don’t have any advice.

What will you miss about MHS? All my great friends.

What won’t you miss?

Getting up early in the morning.

How fast has school gone by? Extremely fast, it’s surprising Mitchell Barta ‘15 how fast it’s gone by.

Are you nervous for the future? No, I already have my career planned out.

Piece of advice: Respect your teachers.

What will you miss about MHS? My friends.

What won’t you miss? The homework and tests.

How fast has school gone by?

Extremely fast!

Sarah Long ‘16 Are you nervous for the future? No, because life happens.

Piece of advice: Don’t take school too serious, you’ll get stressed out.

Bohland joins the improv club By: Kiersten Kiene [Design Editor] College is supposed to be one of the greatest times of life, but what fun would they be if not involved in something? Some like to continue on with a sport, and others like to continue on with drama or theatre, which is just what Courtney Bohland is planning on.

Courtney plans on attending Augustana in Rock Island, Illinois to study neuroscience and premed. But on top of the studying she will have to do, she plans on joining the theatre club. “They have a great science program, and theatre is an added bonus...I am going to sign up at orientation for the improv club,” said Courtney. The nerves are nowhere near her. “I am very excited and I think it will be fun to do this club.” exclaimed Courtney. The hardest thing will be being apart from family and friends. “I will miss my family and friends, it will be weird to do theatre and music without them,” said Courtney.

Courtney will be at college in three months. Pursuing her dream of becoming a Neurologist, this is just the next step. Theatre and improv are a great way to make friends in college and Courtney will be doing just that.

Cannavo’s trip of a lifetime By: Claire Nash [Photo Editor] Some people take vacations in the summer to visit friends or family who they don’t get to see very often. Some visit states and others have the opportunity to travel around the world.

Tricia Cannavo, junior, is vacationing in Italy this summer. She “I’ve been to lots is traveling to Tricia Cannavo, of different states this beautijunior ful country but never out of the for many reasons. “Cause my country!” grandparents are from Sicily so -Tricia Cannavo, we have relatives there, and junior because it’s Italy!” She said.

This will be her first time over seas. “I’ve been to lots of different states but never out of the country!” She said. She looks forward to exploring Italy.

Everyone likes to know their heritage. Tricia has many relatives in Sicily. “I don’t even know how many... a lot! I’ve never met them.” It’s crazy how much family a person can have. She’s not only going to be visiting her family’s homeland but other cities too. “Well we’re doing this like private tour thing, so lots of different places,.. Sicily, Rome, Venice, Positano and a couple others.” She is very excited.

Tricia has heard many great things about Italy. “I’ve heard that it’s breathtaking and that it’s the experience of a lifetime!”

She is looking forward to her trip this summer and is very excited about riding in a gondola. Last but not least to meet her extended family.

Where are they going? Find out what the senior plans are for next year down below!

16 Back Page

Farewell class of 2013 Kirkwood:

Augustana:

Courtney Bohland Isaac Smith

Coe:

Ty Gunderson Sam Grey Beth Knapp Dalton Ott

Drake:

Sarah Mork

Huddersfield Uni: Alex Estes

Indiana State: Zach Borens

Iowa Central Community: Austin Ashley Trev Biery Ethan Herren Kiersten Kiene

Iowa State:

Michael Anderson Micaela Combs Alice Dixon Jared Hall Morgan Kolarik Cole Kuethe Heather Lappe Zackery Lovisa Hannah Morris Leah Pedersen Kelsey Portwine Ashley Reed Preston Speral Carlee Tope

Hawkeye Community:

Tristan Beghtol Mckenna Bloomquist Preston Bowers Ryan Burhite Rachel Davis Jared Buscher Sean Darland Justin Dolley Max Drinkwine Katlynn Fortner Devin Gaffney Erin Garringer Zacary Heinzerling Makenna Hill Madison Hinton Jasmine Hogue Hailey Klostermann Whitney Lakose Brenden Landuyt Mariah McSweeny Peyton Meier Ashtyn Miller Tamara Mull Ashley Neuhaus Tyler Neumann Karen Nguyen Christian Palmer Mickala Pelley Jacob Pizano Catrina Smith Kaitlyn Steggall Megan Stroud Elizabeth Thatcher Zachariah Vasey Antonio Verduzco John Viner Chayse Wheeler Loryn Wignall Samuel Williams Ashtyn Williams

Milwaukee School Of Engineering: Alex Phillips

Mount Mercy:

Cedrick Williams

Northwest Missouri State: Abigail Kriz

NWICC:

Mitchell Ross

St. Ambrose:

Storm Bogs Kaitlyn Nathem Lauren Rausch Jessica Thomas

U of Iowa:

Paige Boche Ben Buckley Alex Charipar Jordan Hansen Mitchell Matias Laurynn Mossman Dakota Peterson Nick Vannatta

UNI:

Ellen Cannon Sarah Eimers Brandon Fagle Kyle Kennedy Brian Kinney Thomas Larsen Devin Lebeau Blake Neilson Peter Rethwisch Abbie Takes Courtney Zeets

Loras:

Claire Nash

Wartburg:

Paige Perkins

Iowa Western:

Brandon Hornback

Luther:

Andrew Davis

Sidney Larsen Aubrey Pedersen

Military:

Mitchell Burhite James Craig Rachel Davis Jordan Enneking Jacob Franck Logan Larson Jonah Miell Aidan Scanlon Ryder Schoon Spencer Holmquist

Workforce:

Hayley Henderson Spencer Toms Undecided: Nick Connelly Vaughn Peyton

Upcoming class dates: CV-2 June 3-14 CV-3 June 17-28 EHC-2 July 8-19 EHC-3 August 5-16 CV classes are held at Cedar Valley in Cedar Rapids and EHC classes are held at Echo Hill Church in Marion.